There's something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked scones wafting through the kitchen. As winter evenings draw in, a batch of Peppermint White Chocolate Scones becomes my favorite way to celebrate the season. Not only are they quick to whip up, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, but these delightful treats are also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons. Infused with the bright essence of peppermint and drizzled with creamy white chocolate, each scone offers a festive twist that's hard to resist. Are you ready to elevate your baking game with these scrumptious scones? Let’s dive into the magic of preparing them together!
Why are these scones a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of peppermint and white chocolate brings a festive cheerfulness to your palate.
Quick preparation: Whip them up in just 35 minutes, perfect for last-minute guests or a sudden craving.
Versatile pairings: These scones are a delightful treat with coffee, tea, or even hot cocoa!
Crowd-pleaser: Their charming flavors and gorgeous presentation make them a favorite at holiday gatherings.
Make ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate, allowing you to enjoy fresh scones at any moment.
Peppermint White Chocolate Scone Ingredients
For the Scone Dough
• All-purpose flour – 2 cups, the backbone of the dough, providing structure for those beautifully fluffy scones.
• Baking powder – 1 tablespoon, crucial for that perfect rise, ensuring they’re light and airy.
• Sugar – 5 tablespoons, for a hint of sweetness that balances the peppermint perfectly.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Chilled butter – 6 tablespoons, helps create that flaky texture we all crave in a scone.
• Half-and-half – ⅔ cup, adds moisture and richness to the dough, making every bite incredibly indulgent.
• White chocolate wafers – ¼ cup, melted and drizzled later for a creamy finish that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• Peppermint extract – 1 teaspoon, brings that fresh, aromatic flavor that screams holiday cheer!
For the Topping
• Crushed peppermint candies – as needed, sprinkles these on top for a festive touch and an extra crunch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the scones from sticking. This preparation will ensure your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined. The dry mixture should appear light and airy, a perfect base for your lovely scones.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add 6 tablespoons of chilled butter, cut into cubes, to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with small pea-sized butter pieces throughout. This step is crucial for achieving flaky textures in your scones.
Step 4: Add Moisture Ingredients
Next, pour in ⅔ cup of half-and-half, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Stir gently until the mixture is just moistened—avoid over-mixing to preserve the lightness of your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, turn out the dough and gently knead it 5 to 10 times, just until it comes together. Shape it into a round disc about 1 inch thick, taking care not to overwork the dough, as this maintains the delightful tenderness of the scones.
Step 6: Cut the Scones
Using a knife, cut the disc into 8 wedges. Carefully arrange the wedges on the lined baking sheet, ensuring there's about 2 inches of space between each. This spacing allows the heat to circulate, helping your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones to rise beautifully.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking
Brush the tops of each scone with a little extra half-and-half, giving them a shiny finish. For added sweetness and a touch of crunch, sprinkle granulated sugar generously over the tops. This step makes them even more inviting when they come out of the oven.
Step 8: Bake the Scones
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and emit a wonderful sweet aroma. The scones should feel firm to the touch, indicating they’re ready to be enjoyed.
Step 9: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. After they are slightly cooled, drizzle melted white chocolate over each scone and generously sprinkle crushed peppermint candies atop them for a festive finish that makes these Peppermint White Chocolate Scones irresistible.
What to Serve with Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
There's nothing quite like enjoying a delightful medley of flavors that perfectly complement the festive charm of these scones.
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Rich Hot Cocoa: This warm, chocolaty beverage enhances the sweet notes of the scones, making every bite a cozy experience. Pairing these together will leave you feeling warm and cheerful.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the scones while accentuating their indulgent flavors. This pairing is perfect for chilly afternoons.
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Citrusy Fruit Salad: A vibrant assortment of fresh fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the rich scones, cleansing the palate between bites. Try mixing oranges, strawberries, and pomegranate arils for a burst of flavor!
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Creamy Vanilla Yogurt: The smoothness of vanilla yogurt beautifully balances the sugary peppermint, making it an excellent dip or side. It adds a lovely creaminess that enhances the overall enjoyment.
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Savory Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie with apricot preserves to create an appealing sweet-savory contrast. The rich flavors of the cheese will harmonize wonderfully with the scones' sweetness.
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Brewed Coffee: A classic pairing! The robust flavor of a freshly brewed cup of coffee elevates the enjoyment of these sweet scones. The bitterness of coffee pairs perfectly with their sweetness.
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Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: If you're in the mood for more sweets, these cookies provide a delightful seasonal touch that echoes the festive peppermint notes. A lovely addition for a dessert spread!
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Festive Cocktail: A minty mojito or chocolate martini can add an element of fun to your gathering while enhancing the peppermint flavor of the scones. Perfect for holiday celebrations!
Peppermint White Chocolate Scones Variations
There's always room for creativity in the kitchen, so let your imagination run wild with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring your scones are still fluffy and delicious. A simple switch that won't compromise flavor!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond milk in place of half-and-half, and dairy-free butter for a creamy texture that keeps these scones indulgent.
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Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, to the dough for a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Chocolate Chip Upgrade: Swap the white chocolate wafers for semi-sweet chocolate chips to bring a new depth of flavor, perfect for the chocolate lovers in your life.
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Seasonal Spices: Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg along with the dry ingredients to warm up these scones with some extra holiday flair.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for a burst of fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with the peppermint.
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Level of Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness of the white chocolate. A unique twist for adventurous palates!
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon to add brightness and a refreshing twist that enhances the peppermint aroma. A little citrus goes a long way!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint White Chocolate Scones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps—whisking the dry ingredients, cutting in the butter, and adding the wet ingredients. Once the dough is mixed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply roll out the dough, cut it into wedges, and bake as directed. Keep in mind that refrigerating the dough helps maintain the scones’ flaky texture, ensuring they come out just as delicious. For a quick addition before serving, drizzle melted white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies after baking!
Expert Tips for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
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Perfect Butter Temperature: Use chilled butter: Keeping the butter cold helps create those lovely flaky layers in your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones. Avoid room-temperature butter!
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Minimal Mixing: Don’t over-mix the dough: Stir just until ingredients are combined for tender scones. Overworking the dough will lead to tough results.
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Kneading Technique: Knead gently: Only knead the dough 5 to 10 times before shaping. This preserves the lightness and airy texture you crave.
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Spacing Matters: Allow breathing room: Place each wedge 2 inches apart on the baking sheet for even baking and proper rise, so they achieve that lovely golden hue.
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Cool Before Garnishing: Let them cool slightly: Allow the scones to rest before drizzling white chocolate and adding crushed peppermint. This keeps the toppings from melting into the scone.
Storage Tips for Peppermint White Chocolate Scones
Room Temperature: Store scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll stay fresh, perfect for enjoying at a moment’s notice!
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate scones in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving to bring back their delightful warmth.
Freezer: Freeze scones individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm up in the oven or microwave.
Reheating: To reheat, place scones in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, preserving the delicious texture of your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones.
Peppermint White Chocolate Scones Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for pure extracts rather than imitation ones for the best flavor. Pure extracts often have a richer and more vibrant taste, which will shine through in your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones. Make sure to check the ingredient list—fewer additives usually mean better quality!
How should I store leftover scones?
Very! After baking, you can store your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them in a sealed container for about 1 week. If you're keeping them longer than that, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze the scones? How?
Of course! To freeze your Peppermint White Chocolate Scones, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5-7 minutes.
What if my scones are too crumbly?
If your scones are more crumbly than desirable, it may be due to overmixing the dough or insufficient moisture. For next time, remember to mix just until combined and add a bit more half-and-half if the dough feels dry. You can also consider gently kneading the dough fewer times—this keeps the scones light and fluffy!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! The ingredients used in these Peppermint White Chocolate Scones contain gluten and dairy. If you're making them for someone with allergies, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and using almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative to half-and-half.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the dough a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready, simply follow the baking instructions for freshly baked scones!
Indulgent Peppermint White Chocolate Scones to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Add chilled butter to the flour mixture and cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour in half-and-half, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, stirring gently until just moistened.
- Turn out the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead gently 5 to 10 times, shaping into a round disc about 1 inch thick.
- Cut the disc into 8 wedges and arrange on the lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Brush the tops of each scone with extra half-and-half and sprinkle granulated sugar over the tops.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack, then drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
